Educator Spotlight: Susan Coffey
Susan Coffey, who was named a 2026 Kentucky Teacher Achievement Award winner, has dedicated the past 31 years to making her students feel loved and valued.
How Rural Poverty Changes Education and How We Can Help
While our public schools cannot eliminate every obstacle rural poverty creates, targeted strategies and strong community partnerships can help bridge critical gaps for students and families.
Feeling thankful for Kentucky’s educators and support staff as we ring in the new year
Perhaps the most joyful part of the role of education commissioner is the ability to show thanks to so many people who are involved in educating and supporting our children across the Commonwealth.
Signs of progress and optimism for the road ahead
Each year, the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) releases assessment and accountability results for students, schools and districts across the Commonwealth. They serve as a reminder of where we are with our collective efforts to improve the education Kentucky’s children receive in the classroom.
Educator Spotlight: Michele Bradley
For more than two decades, Michele Bradley has been a familiar and inspiring educator within Bath County Schools. Now in her 26th year of teaching – with 24 of those years spent in the Bath County school district – Bradley has worked to become known in her school community as a dedicated educator, mentor and role model for her students and fellow colleagues.
How should I teach about Thanksgiving?
How should I teach about Thanksgiving? This is a big (and frequent) question from educators to the National Museum of the American Indian and its national education initiative, Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°).
Celebrating our educators and supporting our students
As a former teacher, I believe there is no higher calling within a profession than to be a teacher. One of the joys I have each year as commissioner of education is to celebrate our best during the Kentucky Teacher of the Year ceremony.
Knott County School District Launches Professional Development Cadre for Aspiring Leaders
Together with our instructional supervisors, we are opening the door for teachers who aspire to become principals, supervisors, and administrators to begin preparing for that next step in their careers.
Building Stronger School Communities Through Family Partnerships: Perryville Elementary’s Journey to Gold
The Family Friendly Schools initiative has shown us what’s possible, and we’re not done yet.
Kentucky educators are dedicated to continuous improvement
One of the premier events KDE hosts each year to further this effort is the Continuous Improvement Summit each September.